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MediumSplunk security contentBhavin Patel +2

Cisco TFTP Server Configuration for Data Exfiltration

This analytic detects the configuration of TFTP services on Cisco IOS devices that could be used to exfiltrate sensitive configuration files. Threat actors like Static Tundra have been observed configuring TFTP…

Description

This analytic detects the configuration of TFTP services on Cisco IOS devices that could be used to exfiltrate sensitive configuration files. Threat actors like Static Tundra have been observed configuring TFTP servers to make device configuration files accessible for exfiltration after gaining initial access. The detection specifically looks for commands that expose critical configuration files such as startup-config, running-config, and other sensitive system information through TFTP. This activity is particularly concerning as it may represent an attempt to steal credentials, network topology information, and other sensitive data stored in device configurations.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
ESXiLinuxmacOSNetwork DevicesOffice SuiteSaaSWindows

The rule states no platform. This is derived from the 2 ATT&CK techniques it maps to.

Log source category
cisco_ios_logs

Known benign triggers

  • Legitimate TFTP server configurations may be detected by this analytic during authorized backup operations or device maintenance. Network administrators sometimes use TFTP for legitimate configuration backups, firmware updates, or during troubleshooting. To reduce false positives, consider implementing a baseline of expected administrative activities, including approved administrative usernames and scheduled maintenance windows.

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